That's the number of people who have visited the Environmental Learning Center near the Wabasso Bridge in Indian River County during its existence.

Twenty-five years ago a group of citizens from the Pelican Island Audubon Society had a vision — to provide environmental education opportunities for children and residents. The result was the Environmental Learning Center, which is celebrating its silver anniversary this year.

"ELC's mission is to provide stimulating environmental education programs that instill an understanding of the natural world, enrich people's lives and inspire participants to be active stewards of the surrounding natural resources," said Holly Dill, executive director of the center.